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2011-12 FMPC Meetings

Fargo-Moorhead Professional Communicators provides programs at monthly meetings for NDPC members and other professionals in public relations, marketing, news, education and freelance journalism in the Fargo-Moorhead area. FMPC meetings are held the third Wednesday of every month from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grazie’s Italian Grill, just off I-94 and 45th street in the Multiband Tower at 2000 44th St. S., Fargo.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming FMPC meetings.

Sept. 21, 2011 — A Freelance Future?
Freelancers, find out how you can get ready for the changing needs of the marketplace. Whether you’re a veteran or just starting out, or just thinking about the possibilities, you’ll get the specific tools you need to launch, build and grow a successful freelance business from Patricia Carlson of Patricia Carlson Freelance. For other communications professionals, Tricia will also explore how and why freelancers and businesses connect.

Oct. 19, 2011 — Are You Compliant? Intellectual Property and Copyright Law
The Internet has made it so easy to use other’s information. But, before you copy and paste that text or photo, or use that video you find online, do you have appropriate copyright permissions? What are the risks of noncompliance? This presentation by Joshua Swanson, attorney at Vogel Law Firm, will focus on the legal issues surrounding the use of copyright protected text, photos and video, and will address the legal ramifications and risks of noncompliance.

Nov. 16, 2011 — He Said, She Said
It’s no secret, men and women communicate differently. They share and process information differently … use language differently … express body language differently. Unfortunately, sometimes these differences lead to misunderstandings and unconscious biases, particularly in the workplace. This presentation by Dr. Ann Burnett, NDSU professor and director of Women and Gender Studies, will explore how men and women communicate in the workplace and bring greater awareness and appreciation of gender differences in communication.

December 2011 - No Meeting

Jan. 18, 2012 — Create or Die: 5 Easy Ways to Boost Your Creative Output
Many people think of creativity as an almost mystical spark that seems to be attracted to some people, but not to others. You either have it or you don’t. However, those who have studied the phenomenon disagree. Creativity, they say, is available to everyone. You just need to know how to attract that creative spark, to tap into the creative energy that’s inside of all of us. This presentation by Roy Jacobson, idea flow specialist, shows that everyone needs creativity, and gives you five easy ways you can begin boosting your own creativity today.

Feb. 15, 2012 — Continuing Education: Accreditation, Master’s Degree and Other Opportunities (panel)
You know it’s important to keep learning, but have you considered formal education to advance your skills and knowledge? Maybe you’ve considered accreditation from PRSA, or an MBA or master’s in communication. Join us for this informative session, featuring four panelists who will answer your questions about the educational programs they chose.

• Danielle Evenson, Flint Communications, Masters in Business Administration
• Tracy Briggs, InForum, Master’s Degree in Mass Communications
• Eric Piela, Flint Communications, Master’s of Communication
• Pam Gibb, Moorhead Area Public Schools, Accreditation in Public Relations (APR)

March 21, 2012 — Crisis Communications
Professional crisis communication is a skill that is required more now than ever. Blue Cross Blue Shield public relations manager, Najla Amundson, will discuss how to deal with preparation for a crisis, adequate response to crisis situations, recovery and reputation restoration.

April 18, 2012 — Office Organization and Clutter Hotspots
Spring cleaning isn’t just for your home. This year, tackle a new space, your office! Join Melissa Schmalenberger also known as Ms. Simplicity, a professional organizer and owner of I Did It with Ms. Simplicity, as she talks about the importance of being organized, how to find time in your day to organize, and quick tips for specific areas of organization at the office. Her blog and column can be found in The Forum and on Area Voices.
www.mssimplicity.com

May 16, 2012 — Navigating a Dynamic Media Landscape
With all the economic and technological changes of the past few years, choosing where to place your advertising dollars can seem like a daunting task. What does it take to cut through today’s media clutter and deliver your advertising message to the right people? Karen Kelner of Kelner Communications will discuss how to make your advertising dollars work harder and smarter. She will also talk about the benefits and drawbacks of both online and traditional media, as well as useful tools in deciding where, when and how to advertise.
www.kelnercommunications.com